Theo Walcott eases Arsenal fans' concerns over contract talks

ARSENAL forward Theo Walcott reiterated his desire to sign a new deal to keep him at the Emirates Stadium last night.

Theo Walcott has moved to ease Arsenal fans concern over his ongoing contract situation []

The Gunners' top scorer this season used the match day programme for Arsenal's Champions League tie against Montpellier to ease concerns over contract talks.

The 23-year-old England international, who starred for Arsene Wenger's side in their 5-2 win over bitter rivals Tottenham, missed last night's 2-0 victory over the French champions with a shoulder injury.

Walcott said: "It's important for me that something gets sorted out, because I enjoy playing for this club.

"I don't think you can put a timeframe on when it
will be resolved, though when both parties are sure, it will happen."

The former Southampton player rejected a £75,000 per week deal in
August, and with his current contract expiring next summer is able to
sign a pre-contract agreement in the January transfer window.

It's important for me that something gets sorted out, because I enjoy playing for this club

It is believed Walcott is holding out for a £100k per week deal and reassurances that he will be played in his favoured position of a central striker.

Recent talks ground to a halt as the Gunners board refused to meet his wage demands, but it seems their stance has softened in the past few weeks.

Arsenal manager Wenger has been impressed with Walcott's eye-catching performances this season, and sources believe an offer in the region of £85k-a-week will be enough to see the forward pen a new deal.